Do you have a loved one living in a nursing home facility? Consider yourself fortunate, as several Pennsylvania nursing homes are closing. According to a recent article, the state had 695 nursing homes opening in 2019. In 2024, that number was down to 669.
The main reason is the inability of some of these homes to meet the new staffing mandates. It is that lack of staffing that is a key factor in many instances of abuse. This is something that should concern any family who has someone they care about living in a full-time care facility
Identifying Negligence in a Nursing Home
Even though you have put your trust in the nursing home, you can’t control the actions of every staff member, but you can hold them accountable when they fail to live up to the standards you expect. Although you might not like to think about this topic, it is essential to understand the various types of abuse that could occur. Consider the following:
Medical
Nursing homes are designed to provide certified medical staff around the clock to care for the residents. If the staff fails to provide that care, such as administering medication, regular health check-ups, and treatment for injuries, it could lead to serious health problems for your loved one.
Personal Hygiene
If the staff begins a pattern of neglecting your loved ones’ bathing, grooming, and oral hygiene needs, it can lead to discomfort and illness. The staff also needs to provide clean clothing and bedding. You should notice signs of this neglect when you visit with your loved one.
Basic Needs
Basic needs refer to proper nutrition, hydration, and a clean living environment. When any of those needs become substandard, your loved one’s health can be severely compromised.
Emotional Support
Suppose a nursing home resident is left alone for long periods of time throughout the day or isn’t given the opportunity to engage with other residents in social settings. In that case, it can lead to depression and damage the emotional well-being of your loved one.
Mobility Assistance
Some residents might have mobility challenges and require additional help getting in and out of bed. Without the proper support, there could be falls and injuries. If these residents aren’t provided with opportunities to move around, pressure sores could also develop.
Proving Abuse
If you suspect that your loved one is the victim of some form of abuse, you should know that it isn’t your fault. You should also know that there are experienced Philadelphia nursing home abuse lawyers who can provide you with the support you need to have the situation addressed. Involving an attorney might seem like a drastic step, but it might be the quickest way to find a resolution and a remedy.
When your first suspicions arise, you want to take the following steps to help prove the abuse accusations.
Document the Incident
You should keep detailed records of any signs of neglect you witness. If you’re not prepared to lodge a formal complaint, you can email yourself the details. This will provide a timeline for the incident.
You should also take photos if applicable. Additionally, you should have access to your loved one’s medical records that you can share with a healthcare professional outside of a nursing home.
Make a Formal Report
Every nursing home has reporting procedures for suspected abuse or neglect. You should follow those procedures to report your concerns. It is important to note how the facility responds and whether it follows through with its suggested remedy.
Take Witness Statements
Depending on the situation, you might be able to take a witness statement from another resident, visiting family, or staff members about the neglect. This doesn’t have to be a formal statement that is sworn under oath. It could be an email they send you or a video recording.
Set up Surveillance
If you are not satisfied with the answers provided by the staff, you might consider setting up a surveillance system like a nanny cam. You’ll want to discuss this with your attorney first because of the two-party consent laws in Pennsylvania. However, if you are monitoring your loved one, there might not be an issue.
Speaking With an Attorney
When you suspect abuse, you need to take action immediately. You might be overwhelmed by the prospect of reporting a facility that your loved one will continue to stay at. However, there are instances where one bad staff member is being negligent without the rest of the staff knowing.
The attorneys are Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan, who understand the complexity of nursing home abuse complaints. We also understand the urgency of having the matter resolved as quickly as possible. We can provide guidance on how to proceed. Don’t hesitate to reach out for answers.